Mechanical Engineer 1

Mechanical Engineer I

Thorlabs · Ann Arbor, United States · Full-time · Posted 2026-11-04

Salary: USD 84,000–100,000

Workplace: on_site

Department: US - UFO/Ultrafast Optoelectronics

Description

At Thorlabs, we design and manufacture components, instruments, and systems that transform the world by identifying, enabling, and accelerating key photonics (i.e., light-based) technologies. Backed by a dedicated workforce of more than 3,000 employees worldwide, Thorlabs contributes to cutting-edge research and real-world innovation.

Whether you're early in your career or bringing years of experience, you’ll find opportunities to grow, take ownership, and make meaningful contributions from day one. We know every employee brings unique talents and perspectives that fuel our success, and we seek driven individuals who are excited to make an impact in a fun, fast-moving culture.

Thorlabs Ultrafast Optoelectronics (UFO) in Ann Arbor is a division of Thorlabs chartered to develop high speed photonics components and instrumentation. Mechanical Engineers conceptualize, design, and test optomechanical solutions for components and instrumentation. Projects frequently require consideration of hermetic, thermal, and stress properties. Activities include documentation, vendor management, prototyping, transfer to manufacturing, troubleshooting and being committed to customer satisfaction.

• Assist in development of optomechanical solutions for components and instrumentation under supervision

• Create documentation for parts in advanced optomechanical solutions while learning documentation best practices

• Perform testing and analysis of components and instrumentation under supervision per documented validation plans

• Assist in the creation of the required documentation of components and instrumentation

• Assist in development of fixturing solutions for development and production

• Create documentation for parts in fixturing solutions while learning documentation best practices

• Report development status to supervisor on a regular basis

• Participate in design, model, and drawing reviews

• Coordinate cross-departments to ensure mechanical designs meet optical and electrical requirements

• Recommend innovations and improved methods, tools, and processes

• Assist with project planning, estimation, and tracking

• Assist with sourcing and qualification of parts and vendors

• Maintain mechanical design documentation

• Create assembly and test instructions

• Assist and train the production department in troubleshooting technical issues

Requirements

Experience:

Entry Level to 4 years of experience in optomechanical design

Education:

Minimum of a BS or higher level of education in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering or related field required

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Must have working knowledge of SolidWorks or similar CAD software

• Must have exposure to PLM software for managing part documentation; willingness to develop proficiency

• Must have working knowledge of SolidWorks Simulation or similar FEA software

• Knowledge of optomechanical solutions for the photonics market preferred

• Familiarity with statistical data analysis techniques and strong problem-solving abilities

• Candidate must be detail oriented, highly organized, and able to document work

• Candidate must have excellent written and oral communication skills

• Comfortable in a start-up type environment; self-motivated individual

• Perform other related duties and assignments as required

• Although the location of the position is in Ann Arbor, Michigan from time to time it may be required to undertake duties at other Thorlabs locations

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office

• Demonstrated ability of innovative design

• Adept at following and developing processes

The estimated pay range for this role is $84,000 - $ 100,000 annually

Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.  All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identify or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts.  The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer.  Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.

Benefits

Thorlabs offers a complete benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid life insurance, a generous PTO package, a 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement just to name a few.

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